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BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:
A few weeks ago, KMTV spoke with a woman worried about her future after being forced out of her apartment due to a rent increase. Now, she's grateful for her new residence, but a recent housing study reveals a troubling trend affecting many Americans.
Connie Robb is settling into her new apartment, appreciative of finding a place she can afford. "I'm happy here," Robb said.
Robb had to leave her previous apartment when the rent soared beyond her financial reach. According to a new Harvard University study published on June 30, she's not alone in this experience. The study highlights a record number of renters now spending over 30% of their income on rent and utilities. Robb isn't surprised by this data.
"It is a problem, I know (landlords)have a mortgage, but people need to live too," she said"
For renters earning less than $30,000 annually, the average money left after housing expenses is just $250.
"It's rough; you either pay a utility bill or you put food on the table," Robb said.
Another challenge Robb encountered was finding assistance when needed. The study indicates that cuts to federal resources present a risk for the roughly 5.1 million households relying on vouchers, during a record high of homelessness in the US.
